Centre for Initiative and Development (CFID), as a sub-awardee under the National Aligned HIV/AIDS Initiative (NAHI)-Key Population (KP) Program, has been at the forefront of addressing HIV/AIDS among key populations in Taraba State. With a focus on people who inject drugs (PWID), this impactful project spans all 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Taraba State, bringing hope and health to underserved communities. The intervention is sub-awarded by the Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNi)
Project Objectives
Aligned with the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, CFID’s objectives include:
- HIV Prevention and Linkage: Promoting early detection and linkage to care for key populations.
- Treatment, Care, and Retention: Ensuring access and adherence to treatment for those diagnosed with HIV.
- Viral Suppression: Supporting sustained treatment for optimal health outcomes.
Key Activities
CFID has implemented a series of targeted activities to address the specific needs of PWIDs, including:
- Recruitment and training of community volunteers (PWIDs).
- Community outreach through innovative approaches like moonlight testing.
- Enrolling HIV-positive individuals into Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) programs.
- Comprehensive screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), Hepatitis B (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C (Anti-HCV).
- Distribution of condoms and lubricants to promote safe practices.
- Support group meetings to foster peer engagement and provide mental health support among community members.
- Stakeholder engagements to enhance collaboration and reduce stigma.
Notable Outcomes
The 2023 project year recorded significant achievements:
- HIV Testing: 2,017 PWIDs were tested, with 100% of those testing positive (51 individuals) enrolled in ART.
- Prevention: 589 PWIDs were enrolled in PrEP, with a 95% refill rate.
- STI Treatment: 184 individuals received full treatment for STIs.
- Biometric Captures: 92% of targeted PWIDs had their biometrics captured for improved service delivery.
- Hepatitis Screening: 680 PWIDs were screened, with 17 and 13 tested positive for HBsAg and Anti-HCV, respectively.
- Linking Key Populations to Comprehensive Care: As part of the CFID-NAHI KP Project, individuals are linked to One-Stop Shop (OSS) clinic in the state, a community-based model designed to provide accessible, comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment services for the target population. Life-saving treatment provided in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Impact on Communities
The initiative has significantly improved health outcomes for PWIDs, ensuring:
- Increased access to life-saving treatment and prevention services.
- Enhanced awareness of HIV/AIDS and STI prevention strategies.
- Strengthened community support networks to combat stigma and discrimination.
Addressing Challenges
Despite these achievements, challenges such as stigma, mobility of PWIDs, and limited mental health services persist. CFID remains committed to bridging these gaps through continuous community engagement and innovative solutions.
Looking Ahead
CFID’s NAHI-KP Project is more than a health intervention; it is a lifeline for vulnerable populations in Taraba State. By fostering collaboration, compassion, and inclusivity, we are transforming lives, improving healthier and empowered communities.
Moon Light testing across intervention communities.
Report dissemination meeting with project stakeholders.
Presentation of souvenirs to the representative, Nigeria Police Command, Taraba State, following the dissemination meeting with stakeholders.
Presentation of souvenirs to the representative Taraba State HIV/AIDS Control Agency (TACA) following the dissemination meeting with stakeholders.